Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun met with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in Astana on Thursday.

Dong said that in recent years, under the strategic guidance of the leaders of China and Kazakhstan, the permanent comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries has continued to develop at a high level.

He said that currently, the regional security situation is complex, with "three forces" tending to be active.

"Three forces" usually refer to separatism, extremism and terrorism.

Dong expressed China's willingness to strengthen strategic cooperation with Kazakhstan, support each other's core interests and major concerns, firmly safeguard national security, and play a constructive role in the political resolution of regional hotspot issues.

He emphasized that the Chinese military is willing to continue expanding cooperation with Kazakhstan and further promote military relations between the two countries.

President Tokayev said that cooperation between Kazakhstan and China in political, diplomatic, economic, trade, and military fields continues to deepen, and the friendship between the two countries is unbreakable.

He stressed that Kazakhstan will enhance strategic communication and coordination with China, work together to address risks and challenges, and jointly uphold international and regional peace and stability.

The president emphasized that Kazakhstan values the role and status of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and will actively promote the organization's mechanism construction and practical cooperation.

Also on Thursday, Kazakh Defense Minister Ruslan Jaqsylyqov held a welcoming ceremony for Dong, and the two sides exchanged in-depth views on practical military cooperation and the regional security situation.